Oral Roberts University (ORU, Tulsa, Oklahoma) is the premier Pentecostal and charismatic Christian university in the United States. Founded in 1963 by televangelist Oral Roberts, it operates from an explicitly Spirit-filled theological framework emphasizing prayer, healing, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It has approximately 4,500 students and has been growing rapidly in recent years.
ORU's campus culture is distinctively charismatic. Chapel services occur multiple times per week and feature worship, prayer, and often expression of the gifts of the Spirit. Prayer is embedded in academic and campus life in ways that would surprise students from non-charismatic backgrounds. Students are expected to participate in this culture — it is not optional for those who enroll.
This makes ORU an exceptional fit for students from Pentecostal and charismatic backgrounds who want to be formed in an environment that shares their theological commitments. It makes ORU a poor fit for students from Reformed or cessationist traditions who reject the continuation of the sign gifts.
ORU's academics have improved substantially in recent years. It gained national attention through its basketball team's Sweet 16 NCAA tournament run. It offers strong programs in business, nursing, communication, and education. Academic selectivity is lower than Wheaton or Notre Dame, but improving.
At approximately $28,000/year, ORU is among the more affordable Christian universities with a national profile. For Pentecostal and charismatic students who want a Spirit-filled campus culture, it is the clear first choice.
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